[Schroder]

I would argue that the "right way" is a matter of preference. Those I see that have problems using poles usually have them adjusted to the wrong length. I seldom use the straps and you don't need a "death grip" to hang onto them.

[coldrain108]

Lets throw some gas on this fire... Serendipity. I used to be a two pole hiker until one day when my wife forgot her's in the car. We were coming down the steep part of Bandera and I gave her one of my poles. I had never gone down that section so fast and easy, no stress on my legs at all, totally stable balance, felt like skiing. This is my regular training hike so I have been up and down that section many times, usually with two poles until that time. Now I never use two poles. Even my wife was blown away by how easy that descent was with one pole. The tripod configuration was so stable and it left me with one free hand. That unexpected experience changed my relationship with hiking poles forever. I only use one pole and only for steep descents. So I do carry my pole strapped to my pack 90% of the time. Sort of like crampons/micro spikes, they only get used for very specific circumstances, but when the need arises you're sure glad you have em. Plus, I hate that clacking clicking noise when hiking with 2 poles.

[texasbb]

[DIYSteve]

[HitTheTrail]

I am surprised no one has mentioned the value of trekking poles when crossing streams.

[Malachai Constant]

Almost all thruhikers use poles, for what that is worth.

[hikermike]

I have been hiking for 67 years but seriously hiking for only 56 years. I felt disgusted everytime I saw the erudite with sissy poles. The years took their toll and the hikes became shorter and harder. I was depressed. So I saw a pair of black diamonds on sale at the local REI women's clothing store (I'm being sarcastic) and bought a pair. I took some time off during a week on a remote trail so no one would see me and OMG! what a difference they made! I've never been on a hike since with out them. They made such a difference in regard to distance, fatique, muscle/joint pain and workout effect. I use them 99% of the time hiking and wouldn't know how to attach them to my pack. Previously, I always carried a long wooden shaft ice ax as a "cane", (no one makes 110 cm ice axes anymore), but hiking poles are an entirely different experience. A MILLION THANKS TO RUMIDUDE for the videos. I have searched hi and lo for years on how to use them and the only thing I found was an hour long video (YES an HOUR long!) which was second only in absolute boredom to the 5 cd set I have on the history of British Railways! However, I must say I'm in the grouping of those that don't use the straps which I feel are very uncomfortable and make me worry 100% of my hiking time that I might fall and break my wrist. As you get older, you become more and more aware, and wary, that a broken bone can end it all. Just a plug for another aspect for you aging hikers, Last summer I became "dedicated" (out of desperation) to "ultralite" Hiking. It's made me feel like I'm only 55 again! I'd set up camp and then "wonder what you can see from that ridge up there". Speaking of hard to find instruction videos, would someone please make one on what are all those loops and fastenings etc on packs for? They all have them and I never seem to find a use for them.

[Navy salad]

[Navy salad]

[Matt Lemke]

Lol I cut those stupid straps off mine! They only get in the way 😂

[Mikey]

I agree with coldrain108. For trail hiking, I have one pole in my pack for possible use on descent. For off-trail brush wacking and hunting, no poles. It is my impression that no pole hiking helps maintain ones balance - but it does increase the risk of plowing a furrow with your nose (ie falling). Yes, a pole is helpful for stream crossing but often I have used an available stick.

[treeswarper]

I have chastised obnoxious not so wild turkeys with hiking poles. It worked and they left to find friendlier humans to steal from. I did not use the strap whilst thumping the birds.

[MesiJezi]

I've been doing it wrong. I'll have to try the straps that way next time!

[reststep]

In addition to helping at stream crossings I find they work very well and help with balance on low angle and flat snow fields. On steep snow fields I still prefer to have my ice ax.

[Chief Joseph]